Wilson Teacher ‘Constantly Learning’ After 30+ Years on the Job

Ruthie Lewis is the Pepsi/APS Education Foundation Teacher of the Month for March.

Ruthie Lewis (right) was announced as teacher of the month by Adrian Chavez of Pepsi.

Some people are fortunate enough to do what they love from the moment they begin their professional careers. Ruthie Lewis found both the ‘what’ and the ‘where’ at Wilson Middle School.

After more than 30 years of teaching sixth-grade language arts—all at Wilson—she still says they’re “the best group of students in all of Albuquerque.”

Lewis was named the Pepsi/APS Education Foundation Teacher of the Month for March. Pepsi and the Foundation present the monthly recognition for teachers. Award-winners receive $100 from Pepsi.

Many teachers know from an early age that they were born to teach, and Lewis is no exception. She “taught school” with neighborhood kids growing up in Arkansas. She moved west to attend the University of Albuquerque and UNM and fell in love with the climate. Now, she just loves the students and her school.

“I keep coming to work for the kids each day,” Lewis said. “I enjoy being here, I work with wonderful colleagues, I love what I’m doing, the parents are supportive.”

Teaching remains fresh for Lewis because she says she’s “constantly learning.” If something in a lesson isn’t working, she makes adjustments for the next class period.

And, as for the age group, sixth grade is perfect for her. Sixth-graders “bring their unique personalities. They have their own ideas.”

“The cheer that went up for Ruthie Lewis at the school assembly when the award was announced was loud, and it was genuine,” APS Education Foundation Executive Director Phill Casaus said. “The APS Education Foundation and Pepsi take pride in recognizing teachers for what they do, but the students already know the things we’re telling the public about.”